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New Creta, Scorpio competitor secures 5-star safety rating ahead of India launch

An upcoming mid-size SUV expected to rival the Hyundai Creta and Mahindra Scorpio has secured a 5-star crash safety rating ahead of its India debut. The model is likely to launch around the Diwali festive season.

By Shaptadeep Saha

Mar 12, 2026 00:55 IST

India’s highly competitive mid-size SUV segment is set to welcome a new contender that could challenge popular models such as the Hyundai Creta and Mahindra Scorpio‑N. The upcoming SUV has already received a five-star crash safety rating in international testing, signalling strong safety credentials ahead of its expected launch in India later this year. The vehicle is based on the Jetour T2 platform and has achieved the top safety score in ASEAN NCAP crash tests, performing strongly in both adult and child occupant protection categories.

5-star crash rating highlights safety focus

According to Zee News, the tests conducted under the ASEAN NCAP programme showed that the SUV provides high levels of structural protection and advanced safety systems. The five-star rating covers both the 1.5-litre and 2.0-litre petrol engine variants, indicating strong safety performance across different configurations.

A five-star score places the SUV among the safest vehicles in its segment, a key factor for Indian buyers as safety ratings increasingly influence purchasing decisions. Safety evaluation programmes such as Bharat NCAP and ASEAN NCAP assess vehicles based on crash protection, structural integrity and active safety technology. The strong rating suggests the model will enter the Indian market with a competitive safety advantage, especially as buyers become more aware of crash-test results and vehicle protection standards.

Also Read | Toyota plans four new SUVs for India, including the electric eBella and next-gen Fortuner

India launch expected around Diwali

The SUV is expected to arrive in India around the Diwali festive season, a period when automakers traditionally introduce major launches to capitalise on increased demand. Reports indicate the vehicle could be brought to the country through a partnership with JSW Motors. Once launched, the model will compete directly with several popular SUVs in the mid-size category, including the Creta, Scorpio-N and other feature-rich crossovers currently dominating the segment.

Also Read | Hyundai Verna launched at ₹10.98 lakh with new features and updates

The entry of another safety-focused SUV could intensify competition in India’s booming SUV market, where buyers are increasingly prioritising strong build quality, advanced safety systems and modern technology alongside performance and design. If launched as expected during the festive season, the new SUV could quickly attract attention from buyers looking for a rugged yet safety-focused alternative in the crowded mid-size SUV space.


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